Managing growth and taxes are key issues in rural District 7 race

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – In Montgomery County District 7, key issues include taxes, education and managing growth while maintaining the district’s rural character.

Robert Lewis and Brandon Butts are seeking the District 7 seat.

Lewis

Robert Lewis, a retired U.S. Army sergeant major and retired Trane employee, is a lifelong resident of the district, currently living 1/4 mile from where he was born and raised.

Married for 45 years, with three daughters and four grandchildren, he currently operates a business in the district – the Pit Crew Barbecue on Dover Road.

Lewis, 63, holds a degree in public management from Austin Peay State University and said he comes from a long line of public service-minded family members.

“I was born into a family of public servants,” he wrote. “My father, who raised 19 children, was a World War 1 veteran and worked as a janitor and bus driver for Woodlawn Elementary School. Two of my brothers were in law enforcement and one, Milan, also served as the commissioner for District 7 for 16 years.

“Serving the public and giving back to the community was something my father instilled in his children at a young age.”

Lewis was appointed to the District 7 seat in January 2013 when John Fuson was appointed Sheriff after the death of Sheriff Norman Lewis.

“After I retired from the military,” said Lewis, “I wanted to get into an elected position, but felt I needed to know more about what had changed in the community since I had been away. I took a job at Trane to experience what life was like in the area for military and non-military.

“When the commissioner position for my district became open, I realized it was the perfect position for me to put my knowledge and experience to work.

“Since being appointed to the position... I believe I have represented the district in a professional manner and to the best of my ability. I am running for election so that I may continue to use my experience and knowledge to represent the residents and businesses of District 7.

“Some of the key issues facing District 7 are managing growth while maintaining the rural life style loved and cherished by the residents, and maintaining a safe and secure environment and the education of our children. I believe my military experience, education and knowledge of the district make me the best candidate for District 7 county commissioner.”

Butts

Brandon Butts was raised in the North Clarksville area and currently lives in District 7 while working as a large animal veterinarian technician at Animal House Veterinarian Clinic.

Married 14 years, he is the father of two children, a member of the Woodlawn Elementary Parent-Teachers Organization, and currently serves as the treasurer on the board of directors for the Woodlawn Volunteer Fire Department.

Butts wrote, “I am seeking the position of County Commissioner of District 7 because I feel the debt is out of control and the great people of District 7 need somebody in their community that will allow their voices to be heard and supported.

I would like to see our community thrive... and believe there are ways to do this without having to raise taxes. I feel in my heart that I will work harder than anyone to get the job done. I want what is best not only for my community but for Montgomery County as a whole.

“I want to keep this community as safe as possible for all the people in the area. I am willing to listen to the members of my community, hear their needs and wants and be the person that my community members can turn to for support.”